Conference USA Clash Set for Jacksonville JACKSONVILLE, Ala. (Interstat) — A pivotal early-season Conference USA men’s basketball matchup tips off Wednesday night as the Florida International Golden Panthers visit the Jacksonville State Gamecocks at Pete Mathews Coliseum. The Golden Panthers (9-5, 2-0 CUSA) enter on a two-game conference winning streak, most recently defeating UTEP 76-64 on Sunday. Forward Eric Dibami has been a force, posting double-doubles in three of his last five games, including a 15-point, 10-rebound performance against the Miners. He is averaging 15.2 points and 8.8 rebounds over that stretch. Florida International’s offense has been potent, scoring 89 and 76 points in its first two league contests. Corey Stephenson added 17 points in the win over UTEP, while Hamed Olayinka contributed 11 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks. The Jacksonville State Gamecocks (7-7, 1-1) look to rebound after a 78-69 road loss at Liberty on Sunday. Despite the defeat, guard Emondrek Erkins-Ford delivered a career-high 24 points. He has scored in double figures in three of his last four games, providing a key offensive spark for the Gamecocks. Jacksonville State has shown resilience at home this season, including a 78-67 conference victory over Western Kentucky on Dec. 29. AC Bryant, who scored 22 points at Liberty, will be another primary scoring option alongside Erkins-Ford. The Gamecocks will aim to leverage their home court to even their conference record and halt Florida International’s momentum. The Golden Panthers, however, have demonstrated a balanced attack and strong interior presence with Dibami, posing a significant challenge. Wednesday’s contest is the first of a regular-season series between the teams, with the rematch scheduled for Jan. 28 in Miami. Tipoff is set for 8 p.m. EST.